Kids-Inspired Innovation for Careers in Science (KIICS) Program
Overview
The Kids-Inspired Innovation for Careers in Science (KIICS) program provides PhD candidates from Northwestern University’s Driskill Graduate Program in Life Sciences and NU's Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program with a unique opportunity to enhance their research through hands-on clinical exposure at Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, with access to the knowledge base and resources of Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute. KIICS is a nine-month immersive program designed to bridge the gap between bench-side research and bedside application.
Why Join KIICS?
Enhance Your Research Impact
- Gain Clinical Insights: Shadow physicians on rounds, participate in case study conferences, and observe clinical practices to understand how your research can directly impact patient care.
- Expand Your Perspective: Engage with healthcare professionals and explore the clinical context of your scientific work, enhancing your ability to translate research into practical solutions.
Build Essential Skills
- Effective Communication: Improve your ability to articulate complex research ideas to clinical audiences through elevator pitches and “Shocker Lunches.”
- Collaboration: Learn how to work effectively with clinical partners and understand the challenges they face, fostering stronger interdisciplinary collaborations.
Shape Your Career Path
- Discover New Opportunities: Explore potential career paths in translational research and develop a deeper understanding of how to make a tangible impact on human health.
- Professional Development: Gain experience in clinical settings, enhancing your CV and making you a more competitive candidate for future academic and industry positions.
Hear from Our Program Leaders
Program Highlights
Clinical Experience
- Shadowing: Join pediatricians on rounds in one of four key divisions, including Infectious Diseases, Neurology, Endocrinology, and Cardiology.
- Clinical Interactions: Attend grand rounds, outpatient clinics, and case study conferences.
Interactive Learning
- Journal Clubs: Participate in discussions on clinical trials and medical research.
- “Shocker Lunches”: Share and discuss surprising clinical observations with peers and faculty.
Mentorship & Support
- One-on-One Debriefings: Receive personalized feedback and guidance from faculty members.
- Elevator Pitches: Develop and present concise summaries of your research and its clinical implications.
Hybrid Format
- In-Person: Participate in clinical rounds and team meetings.
- Virtual: Engage in journal clubs, case conferences, and debriefings via Zoom.
Eligibility
- Who Can Apply?: Open to PhD candidates and postdocs in the Driskill Graduate Program and NU Interdepartmental Neuroscience.
- Target Participants: Biomedical doctoral trainees interested in understanding the clinical impact of their research.
Meet the Future of Translational Science: KIICS Student Spotlights
The KIICS program bridges the gap between scientific discovery and patient care. Meet some of the incredible students who have participated in KIICS as they redefinine what it means to be a scientist by integrating research, clinical insight, and compassion to shape the future of human health.
How to Apply
- Application Deadline: August 29, 2025
- Start Your Journey: September–June
Contact Us
For more information, reach out to our program team:
Mehreen Arshad, MD, KIICS Program Director
Alison Bender, KIICS Program Coordinator
